The Amun Temple

The dual complexity of your desired structure could potentially allow for a powerful architectural presence for this dynasty. Our society has been given a gift in its proximity to various prime natural elements; located in the abundancy of the Nile River, I propose a structure that will not only fulfill the requirements of the building’s functionality, but also be aesthetically pleasing and timeless. I decided on this particular location because a structure of this caliber should be constructed where it will not only stand out but also measure up to the locality. I am aware of your gratitude towards Amun, therefore I chose to locate this structure at the base of the cliff of the west bank off the Nile, facing the Amun temple. This cliff is
considered sacred and has been for over 500 years. This is primarily due to its association to the principal feminine goddess and her connection with the funerary world. This structure will not only be original, but also innovative. It will use elements from the international style which is a recognized by other architects. Queen Hatshepsut, I propose an architectural structure that will not only meet your level of royalty and superiority but also serve its principal purpose, and it will be known as the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut. A three terrace structure with two ramps in the middle will be the first view Egyptians and visitors to the region will experience.
It will be at a grand scale as to match the grandeur backdrop of the cliff. Since the very beginning of Egyptian history, of our culture, an importance has been placed on funerary burial chambers. They have always been designed on a particular set of platforms. For example, very early burial chambers were designed using mastabas, which through diminishing mastabas placed on top of each other, resulted in a step pyramid. Therefore, I understand the importance of height and its direct correlation to funerary chambers. I am designing the 97 feet structure with colonnades on both the first and second levels. The colonnades are in reference to the ambulatory temples which will allow this particular structure to stand out in comparison to the other temples under construction now in days. The terrace complex will be split into a north and south axis due to a designated ramp which will allow access to the upper levels. The placement of the ramp in the middle will also allow for a symmetrical approach which in many cultures is the definition of architectural beauty. These colonnades will open up to a spacious area: essential for ceremony’s to be held and for great boats to be placed as well. I have designed a different plan for the third terrace. Imagine a flood of light entering this space as people gather for a celebration. This colonnade will allow
for the fortress like structures our culture has known for centuries to be a design of the past. The colonnade on the third floor will lead into an enclosed courtyard; this particular colonnade will be designed with statues of your image. This will allow for present and future generations to know your importance and significance to not only this structure but also to Egyptian history. Being Queen of this great land, I understand that including your image in the design is vital.
The reason why this structure has been called to be design is an extremely essential part in deciding the design elements.
Not only is this a funerary and memorial cult center for yourself and your father, Thutmose I, this structure has a dual purpose where religion also is fundamental. The independent chapels which must be included are the cults of Anubis, Hathor, Amun and Re, the sun god. Anubis and Hathor have chapels in opposite axis locations; Anubis being placed on the north axis and Hathor on the south axis. The two chapels stand independent from the main structure which is clear by the separate ramp designed. As for the other cults, the design calls for those to be disguised by the colonnades on the upper floor. In this particular time, despite what past generations were accustomed to, I understand how it is more reliable and enduring to attach the cult to that of the god’s sanctuary. Whereas the separation was evident in past dynasties, I have made it so that both are present in this structure. Now, for particular reasons of cultic purity, the royal burial cannot be located within the temple. However, your mortuary section has a more striking appearance. I have designed it to make a lasting impression for generations to come. With striking dimensions and vaulted ceiling, your mortuary temple will be made for the royal that you are. The dimensions in particular are 17 feet wide, 42 feet long, and 21 feet high and will contain an offering hall. Your dual complexity
building will feature all the cults necessary to not only serve its purpose, but also distinguish your superiority as queen of Egypt.
There are other design decisions I have decided upon due to your request. As a funerary temple and also cult center, I have taken the liberty to place the cult for Amun in a particularly private location. In a complex such as this one which serves many particular purposes, it is important to highlight and differentiate the important features. The barque of Amun will thus be design in the center axis of the structure. The barque shrine for Amun will be located in the middle of the structure within the cliff. With the use of a corbelled vault, the cliff’s weight will be sustained allowing for the shrine to be exclusive. Therefore the centrality of this particular design highlights the importance of this particular room. Since it is only used for special religious ceremonies, the accommodations in construction will prove evident of this. The solar cult is also another particular design component I took interest in highlighting. Located on the third terrace, the cult is designed with an open small courtyard with a monumental altar. This courtyard is within the colonnade I have mentioned before. Because the ceremonies for the solar cult has to be conducted facing the rising sun, the altar has to be ascended by a staircase from its western side. The four inch niches will have statues of your image to ensure your participation in the sun cults. This solar complex will help secure your immortality.
The structure, which will come to be known as your mortuary temple, will present itself as a grandeur structure which will allow for your presence as ruler and queen to be remembered. The three terraces will be an innovative approach to what the past dynasties have witness architecture to be, while still meeting all your functionality requirements. The statues on the colonnade system on the upper most terrace will allow all who visit know who this glorious structure is accredited to ensuring your power long after you have passed into the afterlife. The cults will be architectural pleasing, in harmony with the rest of the structure. Finally, your mortuary temple will serve its purpose, both as a religious complex and a funerary and memorial cult center for you and your father. All who visit will know your significance to Egyptian culture because this grandiose structure will stand long after you are gone. Not only is it in a prime location, it is an architectural masterpiece. Therefore, Queen Hatshepsut, I propose to you this structure which will be the first of its kind; a structure that will lead your dynasty in architectural work.